DIY Mini 10" Cascading Falls Kit
$699.99
- Waterfall Width: 10" Cascade Spillway
- Max Stream Size: 4' Long x 1'–2' Wide
- Included Pump: 1,495 GPH Mag-Drive
- Underground Reservoir: 21-Gallon Canyon Matrix™
- Complete DIY Kit: Includes Pump, Liner, Spillway & Plumbing
- Pondless Design: Hidden Reservoir & Low Maintenance
- Easy-to-Follow Installation Instructions Included
- Note: Decorative Rocks & Gravel Sold Separately
DIY Mini 10" Cascading Falls Kit
Bring the sound and movement of a natural waterfall to a small outdoor space without building a traditional pond. Our DIY Mini 10" Cascading Falls Kit includes the essential components needed to create a compact pond-less waterfall with a recirculating stream and hidden underground reservoir.
Designed for garden beds, landscape corners, and smaller backyard areas, this complete pondless waterfall kit creates a natural-looking stream that disappears into decorative gravel. The water is collected underground and continuously circulated back to the waterfall.
10" Waterfall spillway width
4 ft. Maximum planned stream length
1,495 GPH Included Mag-Drive pump
6' × 10' Included rubber liner
A Pond-less Waterfall Designed for Smaller Landscapes
Natural Waterfall Without an Open Pond
Water flows over the cascade spillway, travels down the rock-lined stream, and disappears into a concealed underground reservoir. Enjoy the movement and sound of running water without maintaining a traditional fish pond.
Coordinated DIY Waterfall System
The pump, 10" Cascade Box, Canyon Matrix™, liner, and plumbing are supplied together. This eliminates much of the guesswork involved in selecting compatible components for a small pond-less waterfall installation.
Is the Mini Cascading Falls Kit Right for Your Space?
The PB1373 kit is designed for a finished stream up to approximately 4 feet long and 1–2 feet wide. It is a practical choice when you want a decorative waterfall but have limited space for a larger water feature.
The included Canyon Matrix™ reservoir measures 26.5" long × 16" wide × 13" high with its lid installed. Our installation manual recommends an excavation approximately 28" long × 22" wide × 13" deep.
Remember that the excavation dimensions describe the underground reservoir area, not the entire waterfall footprint. Allow additional room for the stream, rockwork, landscape grading, and planting.
Need a wider waterfall or longer stream? Compare our DIY Small 20" Cascading Falls Kit before ordering.
What's Included in the Mini Pond-less Waterfall Kit?
We've coordinated the core equipment and installation materials so you can focus on planning your waterfall layout rather than selecting each component individually.
Waterfall & Liner Components
- Mini 10" DIY Cascade Box (PB1359)
- 6' × 10' PondGard EPDM rubber liner
- Protective underliner
- 1" × 7' black PVC flex hose
- Pump discharge assembly and plumbing fittings
- Supplied PVC cement
Underground Reservoir & Pump
- Canyon Matrix™ (PB2989)
- 1,495 GPH Large Mag-Drive Pump (PB2613)
- Pump foam pre-filter
- 20' grounded pump power cord
The linked pump page offers multiple flow options. The pump included with this kit is the 1,495 GPH PB2613 model.
Instructions & Startup Treatments
- Illustrated installation instructions
- 8 oz. Pond Cleaner
- Muck Buster™ water treatment
What You'll Supply
- Decorative rocks and gravel
- Water for filling the reservoir
- Excavation and site-preparation materials
- Suitable electrical access
- Landscape plants and finishing materials, if desired
Rocks and gravel are not included. These materials are needed to create the finished rock-lined waterfall and conceal the underground reservoir.
DIY Mini 10" Cascading Falls Kit Specifications
Kit SKU: PB1373
Product type: Complete pond-less waterfall kit
Waterfall width: 10"
Maximum planned stream: 4' L × 1'–2' W
Cascade Box model: PB1359
Cascade Box dimensions: 10" W × 8.5" L × 8" H
Cascade Box max flow: 1,800 GPH
Cascade Box inlets: Two 1" Spinweld fittings
Included pump: PB2613 Large Mag-Drive
Pump rated flow: 1,495 GPH
Pump wattage: 153 W
Pump current: 1.46 A
Pump maximum head: 16.7 ft.
Pump outlet: 1"
Pump dimensions: 9.25" L × 4.5" W × 5.5" H with guard
Pump power cord: 20 ft.
Canyon Matrix model: PB2989
Canyon Matrix dimensions: 26.5" L × 16" W × 11.5" H
Height with lid: 13"
Reservoir capacity: 21 gallons
Reservoir max flow: 2,500 GPH
Rubber liner: 6' × 10' PondGard EPDM
PVC flex hose: 1" × 7'
Recommended excavation: 28" L × 22" W × 13" D
Flow note: The 1,495 GPH pump rating represents maximum rated flow, not guaranteed delivery at the waterfall. Actual water movement depends on vertical lift, plumbing resistance, and installation conditions. The reservoir's 21-gallon capacity is not the minimum operating water level.
How the Pond-less Waterfall System Works
This system creates the appearance of a natural flowing stream without requiring an exposed pond.
1
Water Collects Underground
The lined reservoir stores water beneath decorative rock and gravel.
2
The Canyon Matrix Protects the Pump
The Canyon Matrix maintains open water space around the submerged pump and provides access for cleaning and maintenance.
3
Water Returns to the Spillway
The Mag-Drive pump sends water through the flexible PVC hose to the 10" Cascade Box at the top of the stream.
4
The Waterfall Recirculates
Water flows over the spillway and down the rock-lined stream before disappearing back into the underground reservoir.
Planning Your Pond-less Waterfall Installation
Our Mini Cascading Falls Kit is designed for DIY installation, but it still requires excavation, liner placement, plumbing connections, and carefully arranged rockwork.
1
Choose Your Location
Select an area where the waterfall can be enjoyed from your home or outdoor living space. Plan the stream route, locate the basin, and confirm underground utility locations before excavation.
2
Excavate the Reservoir
Dig approximately 28" long × 22" wide × 13" deep. Remove sharp roots and rocks before installing the protective underliner and EPDM rubber liner.
3
Position the Canyon Matrix
Center the Canyon Matrix with approximately 3" of open space along each slotted side. Fill these areas with rinsed river rock large enough to remain outside the reservoir slots.
4
Install the Spillway and Plumbing
Shape your stream and waterfall drops, place the Cascade Box on firm level ground, and connect the pump and PVC flex hose according to the installation manual.
5
Complete the Rockwork and Start the Falls
Arrange decorative stone and gravel, fill the reservoir, and start the pump. Check the flow, water level, and stream edges before trimming or concealing the liner.
Installation Details Worth Knowing
Our installation guide recommends keeping at least 6" of extra liner around the basin and stream edges during installation. Do not trim the liner too early, since adjustments may be needed after the waterfall and surrounding rockwork are complete.
Keep the Canyon Matrix access lid available for pump maintenance. Use a properly grounded, GFCI-protected electrical receptacle and follow all pump electrical safety instructions.
Before starting your project, review the official installation manual linked below.
Optional Waterfall Upgrades
Automatic Water Level Control
The Canyon Matrix includes a connection for a compatible automatic water-fill system. This can help replace water lost through evaporation and splashing.
View Hudson 1/2" Automatic Water Fill Kit (PB1342)
Sold separately. The valve has a maximum water-pressure rating of 30 PSI. Follow its installation requirements.
Waterfall Lighting
Add underwater lighting to illuminate moving water and surrounding rockwork after dark.
View IllumiGlow® Warm White 3-Light LED Kit (PB2897)
Sold separately. Lighting is optional and is not included in the Mini Cascading Falls Kit.
Compare Blue Thumb Pond-less Waterfall Kits
Different waterfall kits support different stream lengths, spillway widths, and reservoir configurations. Compare the DIY Mini kit with other available Blue Thumb pondless waterfall systems to find the right fit.
View Waterfall Kit Comparison Chart
| Kit / SKU | Max Stream | Liner | Falls | Pump | Flex Hose | Matrix | Pump Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Mini 10" PB1373 — THIS KIT |
4' × 1'–2' | 6' × 10' | 10" | 1,495 GPH | 1" × 7' | Canyon Matrix™ | Integrated |
| DIY Small 20" PB1854 |
Approx. 7' × 2'–4' | 8' × 15' | 20" | 1,980 GPH | 1.5" × 10' | Canyon Matrix™ | Integrated |
| Elite Small Cascade PB1229 |
6' × 1'–2' | 10' × 15' | 14" | 2,100 GPH | 2" × 25' | 1 Large | Small Canyon |
| Elite Small Spillway PB16KIT |
6' × 1'–2' | 10' × 15' | 16" | 2,100 GPH | 2" × 25' | 1 Large | Small Canyon |
| Elite Medium Cascade PB1236 |
16' × 2'–4' | 10' × 10' + 10' × 20' | 22" | 4,500 GPH | 2" × 25' | 3 Large | Small Canyon |
| Elite Medium Spillway PB28KIT |
Approx. 15' × 2'–4' | 10' × 10' + 10' × 20' | 28" | 6,000 GPH | 2" × 25' | 3 Large | Small Canyon |
| Elite Large Cascade PB30CFK |
17' × 4'–6' | 15' × 15' + 10' × 20' | 30" | 6,000 GPH | 3" × 25' | 3 Large + 3 Small | Large Canyon |
| Elite XL Cascade PB40CFK |
18' × 6'–7' | 15' × 15' + 15' × 20' | 40" | 7,800 GPH | 3" × 25' | 4 Large + 4 Small | Large Canyon |
Stream dimensions are planning guidelines and may vary with site conditions, elevation changes, and waterfall design. The current individual product pages and installation manuals should be used for final sizing.
Care, Maintenance & Winter Preparation
Routine Waterfall Maintenance
A pond-less waterfall generally requires less maintenance than a traditional fish pond, but the pump, reservoir, and stream still need periodic care.
- Check reservoir water levels regularly, particularly during warm or windy weather.
- Remove leaves and debris that could restrict or redirect water flow.
- Inspect and clean the pump intake and pre-filter as recommended.
- Check the cascade box filter media and plumbing connections.
- Use pond and waterfall water treatments according to their instructions.
Winter Care
In freezing climates, ice can redirect water outside the lined stream and lower the reservoir water level.
If shutting down for winter, clean the waterfall and follow our seasonal guide for removing and storing the pump where it cannot freeze. Our maintenance guide recommends maintaining at least half the reservoir's water level during winter shutdown.
View Our Pond-less Waterfall Maintenance & Winterization Guide
Product Resources & Installation Manuals
Use these official Blue Thumb resources for complete installation instructions, maintenance information, pump operation, and warranty coverage.
Component Warranty Coverage
Different components in this complete pond-less waterfall system have separate warranty coverage.
- Mini 10" Cascade Box: Lifetime manufacturer's warranty against qualifying manufacturing defects.
- Canyon Matrix™: Lifetime manufacturer's warranty against qualifying manufacturing defects.
- Mag-Drive Pump: 5-year limited warranty. The impeller is excluded from warranty coverage.
Warranty coverage applies according to the manufacturer's published conditions and exclusions. Review our official warranty documentation for complete details.
Questions About Your Pond-less Waterfall Project?
Not sure whether the Mini Cascading Falls Kit is the right size for your landscape? Our Sales and Technical Team can help you compare waterfall kits, understand reservoir requirements, and plan your installation before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pond-less waterfall?
A pond-less waterfall is a recirculating water feature that stores its water in an underground reservoir rather than an exposed pond. Water flows down the constructed stream, disappears through decorative rock and gravel, and returns to the reservoir to be pumped back to the waterfall.
How much space do I need for the Mini Cascading Falls Kit?
This kit is designed for a stream up to approximately 4 feet long and 1–2 feet wide. The underground Canyon Matrix requires an excavation approximately 28" long × 22" wide × 13" deep. Allow additional room for the surrounding rockwork and landscape.
Are rocks and gravel included with the kit?
No. The primary waterfall components, pump, reservoir, liner, plumbing, and listed startup treatments are included. Decorative rocks and gravel must be purchased separately. The amount and type of stone will depend on your waterfall design.
Can I install this pondless waterfall myself?
Yes. The Mini Cascading Falls Kit is designed for DIY installation. However, building the waterfall requires excavation, liner installation, plumbing connections, and stone placement. Follow the included installation instructions, and consider professional help if needed.
Can I add an automatic water-fill system?
Yes. The Canyon Matrix includes a connection for a compatible automatic water-fill system. Our Hudson 1/2" Automatic Water Fill Kit, PB1342, is an available option sold separately. Follow its installation requirements and maximum water-pressure rating of 30 PSI.
Will the waterfall produce 1,495 gallons per hour?
The included Mag-Drive pump is rated at 1,495 GPH. Actual water delivery at the waterfall depends on pumping height, hose routing, and plumbing resistance. The flow at the spillway will generally be lower than the pump's maximum rated flow.
What is the difference between the 10" Mini and 20" DIY Cascading Falls Kits?
The Mini kit uses a 10" spillway, a 1,495 GPH pump, and supports a planned stream up to approximately 4 feet long. The 20" DIY kit includes a wider spillway, a 1,980 GPH pump, a larger liner, and supports a planned stream approximately 7 feet long according to its updated product specifications.
Can I leave my pond-less waterfall running during winter?
Winter operation requires caution. Ice can redirect water outside the stream, causing water loss and potentially damaging the pump. If you shut down the waterfall, remove and store the pump where it cannot freeze and follow our seasonal maintenance instructions.
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Elite Small 14" Cascading Falls Kit
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